The A39 through Exmoor is one of the most scenic routes to drive in Somerset and definitely has some of the most breath taking views.

The road takes you past glorious views of historic Dunster Castle surrounded by trees, which at this time of year are all different shades of burned orange, amber and rustic red.

It then weaves past Minehead, before twisting a turning into the village of Porlock – it’s a this point you have two options, a very steep hill or a toll road (caravans and big vehicles are supposed to take this).

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We decided that Scotty the Skoda, a 1.1ltr Fabia, would be fine going up Porlock Hill and that as an outing of Somerset Live reporters we should film it.

At this point it’s important to note that Porlock Hill takes you up 1,300ft in less than two miles. Parts of the road have a one in four gradient and at this time of year the road is often littered with fallen leaves adding to the challenge.

At the top of Porlock Hill the view is spectacular (Image: Ruth Ovens)

The hill is unique in the fact that every time you think you have reached the top, there’s another turn or twist and a new part to climb.

It’s safe to say – if you don’t like hill starts you won’t like this road.

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Previously when I’ve driven up this hill I had a clear run with no vehicles in front of me but on this occasion I was following a VW and at one point I was worried they were going to roll backwards as we dropped to less than 10mph – fortunately this didn’t happen!

Exmoor ponies grazing on the hillside (Image: Ruth O)

Once you get to the top the countryside unfolds in front of you – deep valleys on the left and a steep cliff-like drop to the sea on the right.

All of this is enhanced by the wild Exmoor ponies grazing on the shrub land, low lying clouds touching the highest points of the land and the wind sweeping in from the sea.

The road then weaves its way along the hill crest - following the ridges (Image: Ruth Ovens)

From here you can following the road past dramatic cliff drops as you drive into Lynmouth before weaving across the countryside and ending up in Barnstaple.

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